UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, Ohio — The deadly Hamas attack on Israel has prompted rallies, vigils and protests all over the world – including here in the United States.
More rallies and protests are expected Friday, leaving many cities on high alert.
Here in Northeast Ohio, the University Heights Police Department, the Shaker Heights Police Department, and Beachwood Mayor shared updates about their increased security efforts while also stressing there is no evidence of any credible threat.
SHAKER HEIGHTS POLICE
Here is the full text of their release:
"The Shaker Heights Police Department (SHPD) is aware of a call for action put out by a former Hamas leader. The SHPD is receiving timely updates from our federal law enforcement partners. While there have been no specific threats against our Community and/or United States as a whole, as tensions rise we understand the possible impact to our neighbors both here, and abroad. We wanted to take this time to reassure our Community of our commitment to your safety, and the safety of your families by expressing that we will act immediately and decisively should the need arise.
"Should you see anything out of the ordinary that concerns you, we encourage you to contact our police department directly at (216) 491-1234. If you believe the circumstances are an emergency, please call 911."
UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS POLICE
Here is the full text from their post:
"We are aware of reports of Hamas calling for violence against the Jewish people and Americans around the world tomorrow, Friday, October 13, 2023. As indicated in the attached FBI PSA, we here at University Heights Police are also unaware of any credible threats to the University Heights community, but we are not taking any chances. We will have additional officers patrolling and monitoring the area throughout the day tomorrow. We will also continue, as we always do, to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as the Jewish Federation Security. Together we will address any potential issues and handle them accordingly.
"The University Heights Police Department has zero tolerance for hate. We believe that everyone should be able to worship and live their lives in peace and will do everything within our power to ensure that happens.
"Since we cannot be everywhere at all times, we need your help. The phrase, "If you see something, say something" has never been more appropriate. We strongly encourage anyone who sees anything suspicious tomorrow, and always, to report it to us immediately. We would rather rule something out than respond after the fact."
BEACHWOOD MAYOR JUSTIN BERNS
Here is full text of what he posted on Facebook:
"I am writing to inform you about recent developments that warrant our community’s attention. Khaled Meshaal, a former Hamas leader, has issued a call for a worldwide “Day of Jihad” scheduled for tomorrow, October 13. While we have NOT received any direct threats related to our community, we recognize that there are varying interpretations of what this call to action may mean to those who are inspired by it.
"We want to reassure you that we take this matter very seriously and understand the potential impact of such statements on our community. Under the guidance of our Police Chief Katherine McLaughlin, we have taken proactive measures to enhance security throughout the City, including our schools and institutions for tomorrow and the entire weekend.
"We are actively collaborating with both private and public law enforcement agencies to gather intelligence and have increased our patrol and visibility. In addition to our dedicated law enforcement officers, members of the Sheriff’s Department will be present in our City as part of our collective efforts to maintain security.
"We urge all members of our community to exercise heightened awareness of their surroundings during this time. The principle of “if you see something, say something” is more critical than ever. If you come across anything that appears out of the ordinary or raises concern, please do not hesitate to contact law enforcement 216-464-1234.
"We want to express our gratitude to every one of you for taking this matter seriously and for demonstrating vigilance in looking out for ourselves and our neighbors. Together, we are committed to upholding safety and security from a law enforcement standpoint."
Sincerely,
Justin Berns, Mayor
FBI STATEMENT
Earlier in the week, the FBI issued the following statement in regarding to safety in the United States after the Hamas attack on Israel:
While the FBI does not have specific and credible intelligence indicating a threat to the United States stemming from the Hamas attacks in Israel, we are closely monitoring unfolding events and will share relevant information with our state, local, federal and international law enforcement, intelligence and homeland security partners to ensure they are prepared for any impacts to public safety. We will not hesitate to adjust our security posture, as appropriate, to protect the American people.
NEW YORK CITY
Stephanie Gosk of NBC News joined the GO! morning show on 3News early Friday to discuss the increased security in New York City.
“We’ve been speaking to law enforcement all week, and they say there is no specific, credible threat, but they are in a high state of alert at synagogues and other Jewish places – especially today – after a former Hamas leader called for a day of international protests,” Gosk told 3News’ Maureen Kyle.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, Gosk said police are closely monitoring social media.
“They said there has been an increase in general antisemitic threats online, but again nothing specific and credible. Here in New York, there is some tension. There are some private schools even that have closed today out of an abundance of caution.”